Small Wonders: Farm Scale Models

Bill Brinkman’s Waterloo water wagon is a one-of-a-kind design he developed from reading books and observing equipment at vintage equipment shows and demonstrations. The wagon is typical of those used to feed some of the earliest steam engines.

Photo by Loretta Sorenson

For some projects, like this International Harvester planter, Bill enhances manufactured scale models. Here, he added a tongue, eveners and a seat for a 2-horse planter.

Photo by Loretta Sorenson

Bill in his shop.

Photo by Loretta Sorenson

This model replicates an 1890s J.I. Case 12-barrel steel water tank that replaced the company’s previous wooden tanks. Here, Bill uses an aerosol can for the wagon’s body, providing a very accurate likeness of the actual steel tank designed for this wagon.

Photo by Loretta Sorenson

This Meadowbrook cart and horse is another of Bill’s first creations. The Meadowbrook cart was a popular one-horse, lightweight vehicle in its day.

Photo by Loretta Sorenson

In years past, Bill made his own wooden wheels. He now relies on the quality and availability of ready-made wheels that he paints to match his models.

Photo by Loretta Sorenson

The beaded harness and bridles Bill uses are made with as much realistic detail as possible. Fitting them on each horse, working with buckles and snaps, requires patience and a keen eye.

Photo by Loretta Sorenson

This scale model hay sweep was one of Bill’s early projects. He has retained most of his “firsts” for his own scale model collection.

Photo by Loretta Sorenson

Steel jigs designed to limit the width and depth of tiny holes help Bill create precise detail on models such as the simulated springs of this hitch wagon.

Photo by Loretta Sorenson

Bill developed his own forecart design to create these realistic models.

Photo by Loretta Sorenson

In choosing supplies such as these die-cast seats, Bill aims to find the best quality and most detailed items.

Photo by Loretta Sorenson

Every piece of each model is carefully crafted, sanded, painted and striped to create the realistic quality that makes Bill’s work so appealing.